Personal Responsibility

Friday, May 8, 2009

Personal Responsibility

This little kitten was anonymously left after hours at the door

of A Pet's Life a few days ago by a complete coward of a human being. Regardless of the personal circumstances he, she or they may be faced with, he, she or they (at the very least) could have brought the kitten in during business hours to protect it from the traffic on US 41 nearby, and who knows what else. Were there more kittens left at the door? No one knows.

This incomprehensible lack of personal responsiblity is topped only by the person or persons who left two beautiful cats in downtown Venice a few weeks ago when they presumably left their winter paradise for parts up North. Grrrrr.

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What is TNR?

“Euthanasia” in animal control pounds and shelters is the number one documented cause of death of all cats in the U.S. The most comprehensive study to date indicates that 72% of all cats entering these facilities are killed. Just 23% are adopted, and only 2% are reunited with their owners.

These statistics are from the National Council on Pet Population Study and Policy Shelter Statistics Survey, 1994-97. It surveyed roughly 5,000 shelters annually for four years, receiving responses from about 1,000. Although dated, it remains the most comprehensive and rigorous study that exists. More recent, less complete studies reflect the same trends—for instance, the 2006 National Animal Control Association Statistical Survey showed that 66% of cats were killed.

How We Help

1. First, with an attitude of doing it "cat by cat." If the magnitude of the situation appears to be overwhelming, we methodically devise a plan to help a colony cats one at a time, until the breeding and other undesirable behaviors have been resolved. We work constantly to help those who are taking care of cats, particularly colonies and abandoned outdoor cats, to learn how they can get those cats fixed and get the tiny kittens out of there and into homes.

2. Second, we advocate and educate so that those who don't understand the availability of new programs for spay-neuter and the damage done by breeding pets can learn how they can be part of the solution. Sometimes this means advocacy with government managers or cat rescue groups.

Key West Cat Society - Venice Cat Coalition

Friday, May 8, 2009